Rain Keeps Numbers Low
AUSTRALIA - With another major rain event unfolding across the Northern Territory, and due to drift into southern Queensland over coming days, livestock turnoff remains low across all species, causing major problems for abattoirs and exporters.
26 February 2010
1 minute read
Many cattle abattoirs have been running on fewer shifts so far this year, and three mixed species works have closed recently. The extent of the problems posed for small stock operations was illustrated again this week, with the announcement of a three-month closure of Castricum Brothers in Victoria, a major lamb processor/exporter.
Rarely have all livestock species been in low supply at the same time, but so far this year, weekly cattle slaughter has averaged 16 per cent below last year, calves 14 per cent, lambs 17 per cent, sheep 30 per cent, goats 15 per cent and pigs three per cent (MLA’s NLRS).
Cattle, lamb and goat supplies can be expected to rise substantially in autumn, as many of the animals retained so far this year are brought to market – mostly in top condition. This could see an unusual autumn price correction, especially if the A$ remains around 90US¢, or moves higher.
Japan ox prices lifted a further seven per cent this week, and the EYCI rose to 339¢/kg cwt, both are now seven to eight per cent above the same time last year.
TheCattleSite News Desk
